KR102615913B1 - Bag holder for infusion systems - Google Patents

Abstract

A solution is proposed for infusing one or more fluids into a patient. The corresponding injection system (200; 700) comprises one or more supply stations (105a; 105b) each supplying one of the fluids to be injected, wherein at least one of the supply stations (105a; 105b) receives the fluid to be injected. A bottle holder (115a; 115b) for holding a bottle (110a; 110b), including a first connector (415; 1135), and on the bottle holder (115a; 115b) A cover 120a; 120b to cover the bottle 110a; 110b when held, the first connector 415 for mounting the cover 120a; 120b on the bottle holder 115a; 115b; It includes covers (120a; 120b) including a second connector that is mated to (1135); The at least one supply station (105a; 105b) includes a bag holder (205a; 205b) for holding a bag (605) containing the fluid to be injected, the bag holder (205a; 205b) comprising the bag holder ( In order to mount the bottle holder (205a; 205b) on the bottle holder (115a; 115b), an additional second connector (425) coupled to the first connector (415; 1135) and the cover (120a; 120b) are attached to the bag holder. It includes an additional first connector 430 that engages with the second connector 420 for mounting on (205a; 205b).

Description

Bag holder for infusion systems

The present invention relates to the field of medical equipment. More specifically, the present invention relates to injection systems.

The background of the present invention is introduced below along with a description of the technology related to its context. However, even when this description refers to literature, operations, artifacts, etc., it does not suggest or indicate that the techniques being described are part of the prior art or are common general knowledge in the field related to the present invention.

Injecting fluids into patients is common in many medical procedures. For example, in a scan of a target (body) structure inside a patient, a contrast agent (or contrast agent) is used to enhance the contrast of the target (body) structure (e.g., a structure or organ of the human body). Contrast medium may be injected with physiological saline if available. Particularly in imaging applications (where a visual representation of the patient's interior is created non-invasively without conversion to surgical techniques), the use of contrast agents makes the target structures more prominent. As a result, target structures are highlighted that would otherwise be indistinguishable from other nearby structures (e.g., surrounding tissue). This significantly facilitates the work of clinicians in diagnostic applications, especially in identifying and/or characterizing lesions, monitoring their evolution or response to medical treatment. For example, iodinated contrast agents (such as those containing iopamidol) are commonly used in computed tomography (CT) applications (e.g., angiographic investigations).

The contrast agent is usually injected into the patient's blood vessel by an (automated) injection system. The injection system pressurizes the contrast medium and injects it into the patient under predetermined injection conditions, for example, at a predetermined flow rate and volume. In this way, the contrast agent can be injected in a controlled, safe and efficient manner.

Typically, the contrast agent is provided in a (hard) bottle. Accordingly, the injection system is provided with one or more supply stations, each supplying contrast medium to be injected from a corresponding bottle. For this purpose, the delivery station includes a bottle holder that holds the bottle (turned upside down) and connects the bottle to a delivery device for delivering the contrast medium to the patient. Typically, the feeding station also includes a protective cover, which is mounted on the bottle holder to protect the container held on the bottle holder from external accidental impacts.

The bottle holder and protective cover define a (closed) chamber that can also provide thermal insulation of the bottle. This makes it easy to maintain the target temperature of the contrast agent to be injected during scanning. In practice, contrast media generally have a relatively high viscosity. The viscosity of the contrast agent may adversely affect proper infusion in the patient (e.g., because it occurs at a lower flow rate than desired). In any case, this requires the application of relatively high pressures (with an increase in the complexity and therefore cost of the injection system). Moreover, injection of contrast agents with high viscosity and high pressure is very uncomfortable for the patient. However, the viscosity of most contrast agents can be decreased by increasing the temperature. Therefore, the contrast agent is usually preheated before injection by using dedicated equipment (e.g., warmer) separate from the injection system. For example, contrast media preheated to a target temperature close to body temperature (e.g., 35-37°C) can reduce the viscosity by half. In this way, it becomes easier to inject contrast agent effectively (e.g., at the desired flow rate) with lower pressure (and therefore lower complexity and cost of the injection system) and higher comfort for the patient. Additionally, to mitigate cooling of the contrast agent due to inevitable heat loss, some injection systems are controlled to warm the contrast agent to be injected to maintain the contrast agent at the target temperature (i.e., close to body temperature) during the entire scan examination. Includes a heating device.

Contrast agents may also be provided in (soft) bags or pouches. Bags are more compact than bottles, reducing transportation and storage costs. Additionally, the bag can be completely compressed after use, simplifying disposal. However, the bag cannot be used in (conventional) injection systems designed for bottles because it requires a completely different structure to hold it and connect it to the delivery device.

Alternatively, US-A-2014/0224829 discloses a fluid handling device comprising a hanger supporting a saline source container, such as a saline solution bag, and a pair of fluid container supports for supporting the fluid container. US-B-7,240,882 also discloses a filling station comprising a holding assembly (including a U-shaped bracket and an adjustable strap) to support a medical fluid container and two hook members for hanging the bag.

A simplified summary is provided herein to provide a basic understanding of the invention; The sole purpose of this summary is to introduce some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows, and should be construed neither as an identification of its key elements nor as a limitation of its scope.

In an alternative aspect, the invention is based on the idea of mounting a bag holder on a bottle holder.

In particular, one embodiment includes at least one feeding station comprising a bottle holder, a cover mounted on the bottle holder and a bag holder mounted on the bottle holder, the bag holder comprising a bottle with a cover sequentially mounted on the bag holder. An injection system is provided that is mounted on a holder.

Another aspect provides a corresponding method for operating the injection system.

More specifically, one or more aspects of the invention are recited in the independent claims and their advantageous features are recited in the dependent claims, and the language of all claims is hereby incorporated by reference verbatim (without any advantageous features). is provided with reference to a specific aspect that applies mutatis mutandis to all other aspects).

The solution of the present invention, as well as additional features and advantages, are briefly described herein in the accompanying drawings (for simplicity, corresponding components are indicated with the same or similar reference numerals and the description is not repeated, and the It is best understood by reference to the following detailed description, which is provided merely as a non-limiting indication and to be read in relation to the name (where the name is generally used to indicate both its type and its properties such as value, content, representation). In this regard, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale (some details may be exaggerated and/or simplified) and, unless otherwise indicated, the drawings clearly merely illustrate the structures and procedures conceptually described herein. It is intended to be used to:
1 is a partially exploded view of an injection system to which a solution (not shown in the drawing) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied.
Figure 2 is a diagram showing a specific part of an injection system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a diagram showing a bag holder according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a diagram showing an exemplary installation of a bag holder according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 5A-5B illustrate different details of a bag holder according to one embodiment of the invention.
6A-6B are front and rear views, respectively, of an exemplary connection structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 is a diagram showing a specific part of an injection system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
8A-8B are top and bottom views of a heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is a diagram showing a heating element according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a diagram showing another heating element according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 11 is a diagram showing an exemplary installation of a heating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring particularly to Figure 1, there is shown a partially exploded view of an injection system 100 to which a solution (not shown) according to one embodiment of the invention may be applied.

Infusion system 100 is used to inject one or more medical fluids into a patient (not shown). In particular, the injection system 100 provides (automated) contrast agent and saline (syringe-less) injections to be used by clinicians to perform scan examinations (e.g., in radiographic applications such as CT applications). It's an injector.

The infusion system 100 includes a (left) supply station 105a, a (right) supply station 105b and a (front) supply station 105c for supplying medical fluids to be infused from corresponding containers. In particular, the feeding station 105a and the feeding station 105b are each equipped with a bottle 110a and a bottle 110b (i.e., a self-shape-maintaining type made of glass, for example, and having an inlet at the end of the bottle neck, which is narrower than the main body). Medical fluids are supplied from a (self-sustaining, rigid container). The supply station 105c on the other hand supplies medical fluid from a pouch 110c (i.e. a non-self-retaining soft container made of plastic, for example). The supply stations 105a, 105b may be used to supply one or more contrast agents (to enhance the contrast of specific body structures within the patient) or contrast agents and saline solutions (including physiological or isotonic solutions). The supply station 105c can generally be used to supply physiological saline solution. For example, in CT applications, contrast agents include diatrizoate, ioxaglate, iopamidol, iohexol, ioxilan, and iopromide. Alternatively, it may be an iodine-based contrast agent containing iodixanol, and the physiological saline solution may be sodium chloride. One example of a commercially available contrast agent containing iopamidol is ISOVUE™ manufactured by Bracco Diagnostics Inc. Each bottle 110a, 110b contains a single or multiple injection volume (e.g., 50 to 50%) of a different contrast agent (to be supplied in a predetermined order) or the same contrast agent (to be supplied sequentially to increase the duration of the scan). 500 ml) can be accommodated. Pouch 110c is typically supplied before (pre-flush), after (post-flush), or between (interphase) injection of contrast agent, or alternatively, with contrast agent injection. Contains large volumes of saline (e.g., 100-1,000 ml) to be delivered in rapid succession alternation (e.g., to achieve mixing of contrast medium and saline solution within the patient's organs, such as the heart). , supply stations 105a and 105b can be used to supply contrast agent and saline solution, respectively (without use of supply station 105c).

More specifically, each feeding station 105a, 105b includes bottle holders 115a, 115b for bottles 110a, 110b, respectively. Protective covers 120a, 120b may be mounted on the bottle holders 115a, 115b, thereby covering the bottles 110a, 110b when held on the bottle holders 115a, 115b. defines a closed chamber for housing. The bottle holders 115a and 115b and the protective covers 120a and 120b protect the bottles 110a and 110b from accidental external shock. Additionally, they are made of an insulating material (e.g., polycarbonate) to reduce heat loss, thereby helping to keep the medical fluid contained within bottles 110a, 110b warm (e.g., near body temperature). The supply station 105c on the other hand includes a hook 125c for simply hanging the pouch 110c.

The delivery device creates a completely closed fluid path for delivering medical fluid from containers 110a, 110b, and 110c to the patient.

For this purpose, at each supply station 105a, 105b, bottle connectors 130a, 130b are arranged in the connection ports 132a, 132b of the bottle holders 115a, 115b. Bottle connectors 130a, 130b include a spike for connection to bottle 110a, 110b and a connection element (e.g., a septum or male luer lock fitting) in fluid communication with the spike. ) includes. Spikes and connecting elements are located at both longitudinal ends of the bottle connectors 130a, 130b. Typically, the bottle connector 130a, 130b also includes a filtering unit (not shown in the figure) between its spike and the connecting element. Bottle connectors 130a, 130b are disposable elements for use with a single bottle 110a, 110b (e.g., bottle connectors 130a, 130b break when removed to prevent accidental reuse). by having spikes remaining inside the bottles 110a, 110b).

A transfer set 135 connects all supply stations 105a, 105b, 105c to the pressurization unit 140 for transferring the corresponding medical fluids from the containers 110a, 110b, 110c to the pressurization unit 140. Connect. Transmission unit 135 includes a transmission line for each supply station 105a, 105b, 105c. The transmission line of each supply station (105a, 105b) is connected to the reservoir (or drip chamber) (142a, 142b) and the connection elements (143a, 143b) for relative coupling with the connection elements of the bottle connectors (130a, 130b). ) comprises flexible tubes 141a, 141b provided (at the end distal to the pressurizing unit 140). For example, connecting elements 143a, 143b are spikes if the connecting elements of bottle connectors 130a, 130b are diaphragms, or connecting elements 143a, 143b are spikes if the connecting elements of bottle connectors 130a, 130b are diaphragms. In the case of a male luer fitting, it is a female luer lock fitting. Reservoirs 142a, 142b and connecting elements 143a, 143b are disposed inside the bottle holders 115a, 115b. The transmission line of the supply station 105c is a flexible tube provided (at the end distal to the pressurization unit 140) with a spike 143c for connection to the reservoir (or drip chamber) 142c and the pouch 110c. 141c). All flexible tubes 141a, 141b, 141c are coupled (at their proximal ends to the pressurization unit 140) with T-connectors 144 that include plugs for insertion into corresponding ports of the pressurization unit 140. . Transmission set 135 is a consumable element that can be replaced periodically (eg, every 12 hours).

The pressurization unit 140 is used to pressurize medical fluids (received from containers 105a, 105b, 105c via delivery set 135) for infusion into a patient (e.g., to a pressure of 8 bar or between 0.5 and 9.9 bar). Includes an electric motor (not visible in the drawing) of the peristaltic pump used (with a flow rate of ml/s).

A delivery set 145 connects the pressurization unit 140 to the patient for delivering (pressurized) medical fluid to the patient. Delivery set 145 is provided (at the distal end to the patient) with a peristaltic pump, indicated by reference numeral 147, introduced into a dedicated port provided within pressurization unit 140 and positioned in fluid communication with T-connector 144. It includes a delivery line made of flexible tubing (146). Peristaltic pump 147 houses a rotor having a plurality of squeezing wheels between which corresponding portions of flexible tube 146 are inserted. When the delivery set 145 is of a single use type (not shown in the figure) for use by a single patient, the flexible tube is longer (than the flexible tube 146 shown in the figure). , a connecting element (at the end proximal to the patient) for mating engagement with a connecting element (e.g., a plug) of a peripheral catheter (not shown in the drawing) that is inserted through the patient's skin into a peripheral vein. provided. Alternatively, if the delivery set 145 is a multiple use type (as shown in the figure) for use by multiple patients, the flexible tube 146 is shorter and (more than that) A connecting element 148 is provided at the proximal end for mating with a connecting element 150 of an additional patient line made of a long) flexible tube 151 (only partially shown in the figure), the flexible tube ( 151) ultimately ends with a connection element 152 for relative coupling with the connection element of the peripheral catheter. Delivery set 145 is intended solely for use on a single patient in the case of single use, and is a consumable element that must be replaced periodically (e.g., every 12 hours) in the case of multiple use. Even in the case of multiple use, patient lines (150-152) are used only for a single patient.

Control unit 155 controls the operation of injection system 100. For example, the control unit 155 may include a microprocessor, RAM, which is used as working memory by the microprocessor, and Flash E, which stores information that should be preserved even when power is turned off (in particular, the control program of the injection system 100). Contains a (main PCB) board with ² PROMs. Control unit 155 also includes a touch screen and several buttons used by the operator to interact with it.

Infusion system 100 is supported by stand 160. The stand 160 is provided with wheels to facilitate movement of the injection system 100, and the wheels also have foot brakes to secure the injection system 100 in place.

In operation, for each scan to be performed, the operator positions the injection system 100 proximate to the patient and then turns on the injection system. If not already done, the operator inserts each reservoir 142a, 142b and connecting element 143a, 143b into the corresponding bottle holder 115a, 115b (across its flap) and Install the transfer set 135 by releasably occluding them (e.g., via a snap fit mechanism). When the pouch 110c (containing saline solution) is not installed, the control unit 155 displays a message on the screen instructing the operator to install it. When the pouch 110c is used, the operator punctures the seal of the pouch 110c with the spike 143c, hangs the pouch 110c on the hook 125c, and completely fills the reservoir 142c with saline solution. (by repeatedly squeezing the reservoir 142c). At this time, the operator programs control unit 155 by entering specific information (e.g., brand name and dosage) regarding the saline solution in pouch 110c. Alternatively, when the pouch 110c is not used, the operator inputs a corresponding command into the control unit 155. In both cases, when the bottle 110a (with contrast medium) is not installed, the control unit 155 displays a message on the screen instructing the operator to install it. In response, the operator takes the bottle 110a from a separate warmer (not shown) in which the bottle 110a has been preheated to the target temperature; The target temperature is set at a value high enough to allow effective (e.g., desired flow rate) and comfortable infusion of contrast agent into the patient, but not so high that it is harmful to the patient (e.g. , 32-37.5℃). The operator punctures the seal of bottle 110a with the spike of bottle connector 130a. Next, the operator turns the bottle 110a upside down (with the bottle connector 130a connected), inserts the bottle connector 130a into the connection port 132a (connects the connection element of the bottle connector 130a), and connected to the element 143a), the protective cover 120a is mounted on the bottle holder 115 (to safely surround the bottle 110a), and the reservoir 142a is completely filled with contrast agent (reservoir 142a ) by repeatedly squeezing). At this time, the operator programs control unit 155 by entering specific information regarding the contrast agent in bottle 110a (e.g., brand name and dosage). The operator repeats the same operations to install bottles 110b (with contrast medium or with physiological saline), if necessary. Control unit 155 now displays a message on its screen instructing the operator to install delivery set 145. In response, the operator inserts peristaltic pump 147 into the corresponding port of pressurization unit 140 and connects peristaltic pump 147 to T-connector 144. If the delivery set 145 is for multiple use, the operator may additionally connect the connection element 150 of the patient line 150-152 to the connection element 148 of the delivery line 146-148. connect to The operator now controls the controls to remove any air bubbles that may be present within the transfer lines 141a-143a, 141b-143b and 141c-143c, delivery lines 146-148 and/or (possibly) patient lines 150-152. Prime each transmission line 141a-143a, 141b-143b, and 141c-143c individually by selecting the corresponding priming function on unit 155. Once this priming phase is over (with no more air detected within the injection system 100), the operator finally connects the connection element 152 (or the connection element of the delivery line in the case of single use). ) to the connection element of the peripheral catheter (already introduced into the patient).

At this point, the operator can obtain information about the scan exam (e.g., gauge of needle of peripheral catheter, medical fluid, each of which can be selected from predetermined injection profiles for different types of scan exams). Program the control unit 155 by entering an injection profile (including one or more stages determined by the type, volume and flow rate) and then start the scan inspection. At the end of the scan examination, the operator turns off the infusion system 100 and disconnects the delivery/patient line of the delivery set 145 from the peripheral catheter, then removes and discards it.

Referring now to Figure 2, a diagram of certain portions of an injection system 200 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

The injection system 200 can be configured as described above (FIGS. 1 and 1 It is different from (related to). As explained in detail below, each bag holder 205a, 205b is used to hold a bag not shown in the drawings (i.e., a non-self-retaining soft container made of polypropylene). In this case as well, the bags of the two supply stations 105a and 105b can accommodate different contrast agents, single or multiple injection volumes of the same contrast agent, or contrast agent and saline solution respectively. Each bag holder 205a, 205b is mounted on a bottle holder 105a, 105b (instead of the protective covers 120a, 120b), and has a protective cover 120a thereon (instead of the bottle holders 105a, 105b). , 120b) is configured to be mounted.

The above-described solution makes the injection system 200 very general purpose. In practice, the infusion system 200 may now be provided in bottles (not shown in the drawing), which is the most common case, or in bags to reduce costs for transportation/storage and facilitate disposal, or a combination thereof. Can be used with contrast agent (or saline solution). Furthermore, these results are advantageously achieved without any (significant) structural changes to the injection system 200; Standard (conventional) injection systems (designed for bottles) can therefore be retrofitted in a very simple and cost-effective way.

Referring now to Figure 3, a diagram of a bag holder according to one embodiment of the invention is shown (for simplicity, all elements associated with the two feeding stations below are referred to with the respective suffixes "a" and "b"). (displayed after removal).

Bag holder 205 is mounted on the bottle holder (as described in detail below). and a stand 305 (e.g. made of polycarbonate) configured to mount a protective cover thereon. For example, the stand 305 has a generally (hollow) cylindrical shape (eg with a thickness of 0.5-1 cm); Stand 305 has a (lower) wider portion (e.g., having a diameter of 3-5 cm and a height of 0.5-1.5 cm) and an (upper) narrower portion (e.g. e.g., with a diameter of 2.5-3.0 cm and a height of 0.5-1.5 cm), the narrow portion defining a (through) opening 307 for access to the connection port of the bottle holder, not shown in the drawing. A crown with a tongue (e.g. having a width of 2-4 cm and a height of 5-10 cm) from which the support 310 (e.g. made of steel) extends upward. (which is aligned with the opening 307). The support 310 is mounted on the stand 305 with its crown inserted into the opening 307 (with its tongue protruding upward, flush with the narrow portion of the stand 305), It is then secured (eg screwed) onto the stand 305. A lath (e.g. also made of steel, with a width of 2-4 cm and a height of 10-20 cm) is fixed (e.g. screwed) to the tongue of the support 310. It extends vertically upward from the stand 305. The total height of the lath 315 plus the tongue of the support part 310 is slightly lower than the total height of a protective cover (not shown in the drawing) that can be mounted thereon. A slider 320 is mounted on the lath 315; The slider 320 supports a hook 325 for hanging a bag (not shown). As described in detail below, slider 320 can slide vertically along lath 315 and lock at different positions along lath 315. The positions of the slider 320 define corresponding heights of the hook 325 for bags of different sizes; In particular, the slider 320 may be locked at predetermined positions (e.g., four) labeled on the lath 315 for corresponding sizes of the bag. This further increases the versatility of the bag holder 205 as it allows for use with multiple different bags in a very simple and intuitive manner.

Referring now to Figure 4, an exemplary installation of bag holder 205 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

The protective cover 120 is configured to be mounted on the bottle holder 115 of a standard injection system (without bag holder 205). For example, the bottle holder 115 and the protective cover 120 implement a bayonet-type mount. In particular, the bottle holder 115 is an enclosure 405 (e.g. having a generally cylindrical shape) with a side opening for receiving and housing the reservoir and connection elements of the corresponding transmission lines (not shown in the drawing). Includes. A through hole is formed in the top of enclosure 405, defining a connection port 132 for receiving a corresponding bottle connector (not shown). Cap 410 is mounted (eg, glued or screwed) on top of enclosure 405. Cap 410 has a through hole that mates with a through hole in enclosure 405 and includes a male bayonet connector 415. The male bayonet connector 415 includes a plurality of tabs (e.g., four) projecting radially outward; One of the tabs has a stop tooth projecting downward from one end. The protective cover 120 includes a matching female bayonet connector 420 that is integrally formed. The female bayonet connector 420 includes an equal number of tabs (which mate with the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415) projecting radially inwardly from the free (lower) edge of the protective cover 120. The voids formed between each pair of adjacent tabs of the protective cover 120 define corresponding receptors for the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415. The female bayonet connector 420 also includes a radially inwardly projecting rim at an inner position along the entire protective cover 120 . The rim is spaced from the tabs by a distance corresponding to the thickness of the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415 to define a gap for receiving the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415.

The protective cover 120 is placed on the bottle holder 115, and the receptors of the female bayonet connector 420 are aligned with the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415 (dismount condition). ), the female bayonet connector 415 slides along the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415 until the tabs abut against the rim of the female bayonet connector 420 (interference condition). It can be mounted on the bottle holder 115 by translating (lowering) the protective cover 120 with the receptors of the bayonet connector 420 . At this point, the protective cover 120 is rotated (screwed), for example, by 45°, such that the stop teeth of the male bayonet (disposed upstream of the corresponding tabs along the direction of rotation) are connected to the female bayonet connector ( This causes the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415 to enter the gaps of the female bayonet connector 420 until they abut against one of the tabs of the 420 (mounted condition). The same operations are repeated in reverse order to remove the protective cover 120 from the bottle holder 115.

In the solution according to an embodiment of the invention, a bag holder 205 is mounted on the bottle holder 115 (instead of the protective cover 120). For this purpose, the stand 305 is provided with a female bayonet connector 425 similar to the female bayonet connector 420. In this case, the wide part of the stand 305 is provided with an equal number of tabs projecting radially inward from its free (lower) edge. The narrow portion of the stand 305 is spaced from the tabs of the wide portion of the stand 305 by a distance corresponding to the thickness of the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415 and has a similar shape for receiving the tabs of the male bayonet connector 415. Forms an abutting portion that defines the gap. Additionally, the stand 305 includes a male bayonet connector 430 substantially identical to the male bayonet connector 415 (i.e., including the same number of tabs projecting radially outwardly, one of the tabs downward from one end). (having a stop tooth protruding to). The bag holder 205 is mounted on the bottle holder 115 with a female bayonet connector 425, which is now in relative engagement (i.e., translating it) with the male bayonet connector 415. and rotating it). To facilitate this operation, the wide part of the stand 305 is also formed externally with a series of radial projections 435 which increase the gripping force of the operator's hand. As a result, the protective cover 120 is positioned exactly on the bag holder 205 in the same way as on the bottle holder 115 (with the female bayonet connector 420 now mating with the male bayonet connector 430). Can be installed.

In this way, an injection system with bag holder 205 is compatible with previous injection systems without bag holder 205.

Referring now to Figures 5A-5B, different details of bag holder 205 according to one embodiment of the invention are shown.

In particular, Figure 5A shows a partial bottom view of bag holder 205. In a solution according to one embodiment of the present invention, the bag holder 205 is placed in a locked state (for locking the bag holder 205 on a bottle holder not shown in the drawing) and an unlocked state (to remove the bag holder from the locked state). and a locking mechanism 505 that can be switched between (for unlocking) 205.

The locking mechanism 505 is formed by a lever 510 disposed inside the stand 305. The lever 510 is positioned along the side 515 of the wide portion of the stand 305, adjacent to one of the tabs of its female bayonet connector, indicated by reference numeral 520 (bag holder 205 for mounting on a bottle holder). ) extends upstream along the direction of rotation, in this embodiment counterclockwise). The lever 510 is hinged at its center to a peg projecting perpendicularly from the abutment of the wide part of the stand 305, indicated by reference numeral 525, so as to be parallel to the abutment 525. Pivot freely. One end of the lever 510 adjacent the tab 520 has an inwardly extending lead-in tooth 530; While the other end distal from the tab 520 has a push button 535 extending outwardly against a corresponding window opening in the side 515 . A spring 540 is disposed between the side 515 and the proximal end of the lever 510. In the rest position, spring 540 biases lever 510 into a locked position opposite tab 520 and push button 535 crosses the corresponding hatch in side 515. It protrudes out of the stand (305).

The lever 510 (with guiding teeth 530) and the spring 540 embody the pawl of a ratchet formed when interacting with the male bayonet connector of the bottle holder, and the push button 535 implements the corresponding release mechanism. In particular, during mounting of the bag holder 205 on the bottle holder, when the bag holder 205 is rotated (counterclockwise), one tab of the male bayonet connector reaches the guiding tooth 530 and causes the spring Guide tooth 530 is pushed in against 540 to allow its passage. Once the tab of the male bayonet connector passes guide tooth 530 (enters the gap between tab 520 and abutment 525), guide tooth 530 is released, and spring 540 ) returns the lever 510 to its locked position with a snap action. In this state, the male bayonet connector (and therefore the entire bottle holder) is locked (preventing unscrewing) between the stop teeth (not shown) of the female bayonet connector and the lever 510. As a result, the bag holder 205 is secured on the bottle holder in a secure manner; This is achieved automatically (with a snap) without requiring manual intervention during mounting of the bag holder 205.

When the bag holder 205 is to be removed from the bottle holder, the operator may press the push button 535 with a finger to move the proximal end of the lever 510 until the proximal end of the lever 510 abuts the side 515. causing the end to move inward; As a result, lever 510 reaches the unlocked position releasing tab 520. In this state, the operator rotates the stand 305 in the opposite direction (i.e. clockwise) by gripping the stand 305 from the outside with the hand so that the tabs of the male bayonet connector fill the gaps of the female bayonet connector. (since lever 510 is now held in the unlocked position by the tab of the male bayonet connector leaving the gap between gap 520 and abutment 525, push button 535 can be released). Once the tabs of the male bayonet connector reach the receiver of the female bayonet connector, the operator can withdraw the bag holder 205 from the bottle holder. In this way, the task is very easy and can be done manually without tools.

Referring to Figure 5B, a partially exploded view of bag holder 205 is shown. As described above, slider 320 (with hook 325) can slide along lath 315.

In a solution according to an embodiment of the invention, for this purpose, (longitudinal) slotted holes 550 are formed (vertically) along the lath 315 . Four (transverse) recesses are provided along the slotted hole 550, forming (enlarged) through holes corresponding to predetermined positions of the slider 320; In particular, a through hole 555(1) is formed at the lower end of the lath 315 (proximal to the stand of the bag holder 205, not shown), and a through hole 555(4) is formed at the lath 315. is formed close to the upper end (distal to the stand of the bag holder 205) at a distance corresponding to the length of the slider 320, and has two other through holes (555(2), 555(3)) It is formed between the through hole 555(1) and the through hole 555(4).

Slider 320 is mounted on lath 315 by two (cap) screws 560 and 565. In particular, screw 560 has a head larger than through holes 555(1)-555(4), a (thinner) distal portion (relative to the head) that mates with slotted hole 550, and a through hole. It has a shank with a (larger) proximal portion matching (555(1)-555(4)). Screw 565 has a head larger than through holes 555(1)-555(4) and a shank that mates with slotted holes 550. The screw 560 is inserted into the (current) through holes 555(1)-555(4) from the rear of the lath 315, and is inserted into the corresponding screw of the push button 570 of the slider 320. It is screwed into the hole, and a spring 575 is interposed between them; The screw 565 is inserted into the slotted hole 550 from the rear of the lath 315 and screwed into the corresponding screw hole of the slider 320.

The shank of the screw 565 keeps the slider 320 aligned with the lath 315 (without interfering with the sliding of the slider 320). In the resting state, spring 575 biases screw 560 into a locked position where the thick portion of its shank is positioned within current through holes 555(1)-555(4). In this state, the thick portion of the shank of the screw 560 prevents its sliding along the (narrower) slotted hole 550, locking the slider 320 in the corresponding predetermined position. The operator presses the push button 570 with his finger to force the narrow portion of the shank of the screw 560 against the spring 575 to enter the current through hole 555(1)-555(4), thereby causing the slider 320 can be moved to another predetermined location. As a result, the screw 560 reaches an unlocked position where the narrow portion of its shank can now slide along the slotted hole 550. The operator then moves the slider 320 along the lath 315 (with the push button 570 depressed by interference with the slotted hole 550 in the thick portion of the shank of the screw 560). Since the push button 570 is maintained, the pressing force of the push button 570 can be released). In particular, the operator causes the shank of the screw 560 to come into the through hole 555(1)-555(4) at a predetermined position, so that the shank of the screw 565 is positioned above the slotted hole 550. until it abuts the distal end of the screw 560 (the shank of the screw 560 is positioned in the through hole 555(4)), or down, so that the shank of the screw 560 is positioned proximally in the slotted hole 550. Move the slider 320 until it abuts the end (the shank of the screw 560 is located in the through hole 555(1)). Press the push button ( Upon reaching one of the through holes 555(1)-555(4) with 570, the spring 575 returns the screw 560 to its locked position (through holes 555(1)-555 (4)) by the thick part of the shank of the screw (560), which prevents sliding).

In this way, the bag holder 205 can be adapted to bags of different sizes in a very quick manner by simple manual operation (without any tools).

Referring now together to FIGS. 6A-6B, diagrams of an exemplary connection structure according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown in front and rear views, respectively.

In particular, each bag (or pouch) indicated with reference numeral 605 comprises a (soft) container 610 for receiving a medical fluid, for example a contrast medium. The container 610 has a handle 615 at its longitudinal end for hanging it. A (small) tube 620 in fluid communication with the container 610 projects outwardly from the longitudinal end opposite the handle 615 for delivering medical fluid. The free end of the tube 620 is provided with a connecting element 625, for example a female Luer fitting (seen only in Figure 6A).

A back connector 630 is provided to connect bag 605 to a corresponding transmission line. Back connector 630 has a generally cylindrical shape with a (dominant) narrow portion and a (residual) wide portion. Back connector 630 includes a connecting element 635, for example a male luer fitting (seen only in Figure 6A), at the free end of its wide portion for connection to connecting element 625. Back connector 630 may also have a connecting element 640 (e.g., visible in Figure 6B) or a male luer lock fitting (e.g., visible in Figure 6B) at the free end of its narrow portion for connection to a delivery line. ). The connecting element 635 and the connecting element 640 are in fluid communication between them. The back connector 630 has a filtering unit (not shown in the drawing) between its connecting elements 635 and 640. ) The bag connector 630 is a disposable element for use with a single bag 605.

When bag 605 is to be used, the operator connects bag connector 630 to bag 605 (by mating connecting element 625 with connecting element 635). The operator then suspends the bag 605 (with the bag connector 630 connected) to a hook of a bag holder (not shown) through the handle 615 of the bag 605. At this point, the operator guides the back connector 630 across the opening of the bag holder to the connection port of the bottle holder (as shown in the drawing) to engage the connection element 640 of the back connector 630 to the connection element of the transmission line. (does not work) insert it inside.

Bag connector 630 prevents spillage of medical fluid contained within bag 605 and thus any contamination of the bag holder.

Referring now to Figure 7, a diagram of certain portions of an injection system 700 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

The injection system 700 differs from the one described above (with respect to FIG. 2 ) due to the addition of heating devices 705a and 705b to feeding stations 105a and 105b respectively. Each of the heating devices 705a, 705b is mounted on the bag holders 205a, 205b (eventually mounted on the bottle holders 115a, 115b) to maintain the medical fluid contained in the bag (not shown in the drawing) at a target temperature. ) is placed inside a closed chamber defined by protective covers 120a, 120b.

In a solution according to one embodiment of the invention, the heating devices 705a, 705b comprise two separate heating elements (implemented for example by corresponding resistors). In particular, the (first) heating elements 710a, 710b extend around the connection ports 132a, 132b, and the (second) heating elements 715a, 715b extend transversely relative to the heating elements 710a, 710b. It is extended.

The above-described configuration of the heating devices 705a and 705b greatly improves their performance. In particular, medical fluids can be maintained effectively (with higher uniformity and lower power consumption) at target temperatures.

Referring now to Figures 8A-8B together, there are shown top and bottom views of a heating device according to one embodiment of the invention (for simplicity, all elements associated with the two feeding stations are shown below) indicated by removing the respective subscripts “a” and “b”).

Heating device 705 includes a stand 805 (eg made of polycarbonate). As will be explained below, the stand 805 is mounted on a bottle holder and is configured to mount a protective cover or bag holder (not shown in the drawing) thereon instead of the bottle holder. For example, stand 805 includes a crown 810, which is generally a hollow cylinder (e.g., 3-5 cm in diameter, 0.5-1.5 cm in height, and 0.5-1 cm in thickness). It is formed as (having). Crown 810 is open at its lower end, while its upper end is closed by a flat ring 815 (eg, having a thickness of 0.5-1 cm). Ring 815 is defined as a disk with a centrally opened through hole, which mates with a connection port of the bottle holder (eg, having a diameter of 1.5-2.5 cm).

Heating element 710 (visible only in Figure 8A) includes a ring 820 made of electrically insulating material (e.g., polycarbonate), hereinafter referred to as ring heater 710. Ring 820 is flat (i.e. has a much lower dimension than the others with a thickness of eg 0.3-0.7 cm and a diameter of 3-5 cm). Ring 820 mates with ring 815 (i.e., is defined as a disk with a centrally corresponding through hole opening). Ring 820 has a corresponding seat (a depression formed from the upper surface of ring 815) on ring 815, more specifically flush with ring 815 (horizontally in operating conditions). (limited by) is fixed within. To ensure accurate alignment of the ring 820, a positioning notch is formed on the outer edge of the ring 820 that mates with a reference tooth provided on the seat of the ring 815.

The heating element 715 includes a thin fin 825 (e.g. having a thickness of 0.3-0.7 cm) made of an electrically insulating material (e.g. polycarbonate), hereinafter referred to as the fin heater 715 ) is referred to as. Fin 825 has a (bottom) base (e.g., having a length of 7-10 cm when deployed) and a rounded dome-shaped (top) profile (e.g., a base tip of 0.1-0.5 cm from a central height of 2-5 cm when deployed). It has a plan development with a height that ranges from height to height. From the center of the base extends downward a tab (not visible in the drawing) (eg with a height of 0.4-0.6 cm and a width of 0.6-1.0 cm). Fin 825 is curved (along its base) to match the outline of ring 820. Pin 825 is shorter than the outline of ring 820. Accordingly, the fin 825 (after being curved) has an angle less than 360°, such as 220°-340°, preferably 240°-320°, more preferably 260°-300°, such as 280°. It extends along an arc forming an angle. The pin 825 is inserted with its base into a corresponding groove provided on the upper surface of the ring 815 (adjacent to the ring 820) and its tab inserted into a corresponding seat provided on the side of the crown 810. It is mounted on stand 805 (vertically in operating conditions) and then secured (e.g. glued) thereon.

The specific arrangement of the (ring and fin) heaters 710, 715 described above further improves their performance.

One or more temperature sensors 830 (e.g., a primary temperature sensor and a spare temperature sensor) are secured on pin 825 proximate the apex of pin 825. For example, temperature sensor 830 is disposed on the inner surface of pin 825 opposite the bag or bottle (not shown) in operating conditions. The temperature sensor 830 is soldered on the outer surface of the pin 825 to the free end of a corresponding (electrical) connecting track 835 (e.g. made of copper) extending vertically along the pin 825 . The cabling (or wiring) system 840 (e.g., galvanically insulated by an optocoupler to avoid ground loops) includes ring heaters 710, pin heaters 715, and connecting tracks. 835 (and corresponding sensor 830) is electrically connected to electrical connector 845.

Referring now to Figure 9, a diagram of a ring heater 710 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

Ring heater 710 (shown in conjunction with fin heater 715) includes a heating coil 905 formed by a resistor embedded in ring 820 to generate heat by the Joule effect. The heating coil 905 is made of (electrically) resistive material (eg nickel-chromium). Heating coil 905 preferably has a resistance of 30-200 Ω, more preferably 50-150 Ω, even more preferably 80-120 Ω, such as 100 Ω. For example, the heating coil 905 is formed by tracks arranged in four sectors, each extending along two-way concentric arcs. Each sector is connected to adjacent sectors through a two-way radial segment. Heating coil 405 is provided with two pads 910a and 910b exposed on the lower surface of ring 820 to electrically connect heating coil 905 to a cabling system (not shown). ends on the outer side of two adjacent sectors).

Referring now to Figure 10, a diagram of a fin heater 715 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

In this case as well, the fin heater 715 includes a heating coil 1005 formed by a resistor built into the fin 825 to generate heat by the Joule effect. The heating coil 1005 is made of (electrically) resistive material (eg also nickel-chromium). The heating coil 1005 may have a higher resistance, for example preferably 2-8 times, more preferably 3-7 times, more preferably 4-6 times the resistance of a ring heater not shown in the drawing. It has a resistance (e.g. preferably 300-700 Ω, more preferably 400-600 Ω, more preferably 450-550 Ω, such as 500 Ω). For example, the heating coil 1005 has peaks of decreasing height as it travels along the base of the fin 825 toward either end and then is connected to a track extending along two-way vertical segments. formed by, leaving a portion of the pins 825 empty corresponding to the temperature sensor and corresponding connecting tracks (not shown in the drawing). Heating coil 1005 is connected to two pads 1010a and 1010b exposed on the inner surfaces of fins 825 (pins) to electrically connect heating coil 1005 to a cabling system (not shown). (at tab 825) ends.

The structure of the above-described (ring and fin) heater is simple, but at the same time very effective.

Referring now to Figure 11, an exemplary installation of a heating device 705 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

In a solution according to one embodiment of the invention, a heating device 705 replaces the cap 410. To this end, the stand 805 is provided with a plurality of pegs 1122 protruding downward from the ring 815, for example, three pegs 1122 (only two are visible in the drawing). The pegs 1122 mate with corresponding holes 1125 already provided on the top of the enclosure 405 (to receive similar pegs of the cap 410, not visible in the drawing). Additionally, a window 1130 is opened in the top of the enclosure 405 for inserting the electrical connector 845 and corresponding portions of the cabling system 840. Crown 810 includes a male bayonet connector 1135 that is substantially identical to male bayonet connectors 415 and 430 (i.e., includes an equal number of tabs projecting radially outwardly, one of the tabs extending downward from one end). (having a stop tooth protruding to). The heating device 705 passes the electrical connector 845 through the port 1130 and then connects the electrical connector 845 to the controller 1140 of the heating device 705 (e.g., an injection system not shown in the figure). It is mounted on enclosure 405 (without cap 410) by plugging into a corresponding connector (not shown) connected (electrically) to a control unit (housed within the control unit of). For example, the controller 1140 may include a microprocessor, RAM used as working memory by the microprocessor, and a flash E ² that stores information that must be preserved even when the power is turned off (in particular, the control program of the heating device 705). It is implemented by a (daughter PCB) board with PROM. At this point, the heating device 705 is fitted and secured (e.g., glued or screwed as described above) to the top of the enclosure 405. As a result, when the bag holder 205 is used, the protective cover 120 can be mounted on the heating device 705 exactly in the same way as on the bottle holder 115 with cap 410 (now with a male bay). by a female bayonet connector (420) that is matively coupled to the net connector (1135). Alternatively, bag holder 205 can be fitted on heating device 705 (sliding across opening 307) and then heated in the same way as on bottle holder 115 with cap 410. It can be mounted correctly on device 705 (now with female bayonet connector 425 mating with male bayonet connector 1135).

In this way, the injection system with heating device 705 is compatible with previous injection systems without heating device 705 (with or without bag holder 205).

In operation, controller 1140 supplies voltage (e.g., 20-40V) to heating device 705. Controller 1140 continuously monitors the temperature measured by both the primary and backup temperature sensors of heating device 705 (for safety reasons). If the difference between the measured temperatures exceeds a threshold (e.g., 0.3-1 °C) for two (or more) consecutive measurements (to improve certainty), the controller 1140 enters an error condition. Enter (e.g. by sending an error message to the control unit of the injection system, thereby stopping the operation of the injection system and providing a warning message to the operator). Otherwise, controller 1140 drives heating device 705 with hysteresis (to reduce the switching frequency of heating device 705). In particular, assuming that the temperature initially measured by the main temperature sensor is lower than the target temperature minus the delta temperature (e.g. 0.5-12° C.), the controller 1140 switches on the heating device. To this end, controller 1140 can control the ring heater and fin heater separately or together. For example, controller 1140 may generate a (common) control signal corresponding to the difference between the target temperature and the measured temperature, which is the same PWM power signal that directly drives both the ring heater and the pin heater. is converted to As mentioned above, the resistance of the fin heater is higher than that of the ring heater, so the fin heater converts more power into heat than the ring heater (e.g., the fin heater and ring heater are driven with the same current of 0.3-0.7 mA). 10-12 W and 2-4 W respectively). The different heating provided by the ring heater and the fin heater further improves the performance of the heating device. At the same time, controller 1140 begins checking whether the measured temperature exceeds the target temperature plus the same delta temperature. As soon as this situation occurs, controller 1140 switches off the heating device. At this point, controller 1140 begins checking to see if the measured temperature is below the target temperature minus the delta temperature. As soon as this situation occurs, controller 1140 switches the heating device back on and continues repeating the same operation. As a result, the temperature within the chamber formed between the bottle holder 115 and the protective cover 120 fluctuates around the target temperature within a range defined by the delta temperature.

Variation

Naturally, many logical and/or physical modifications and alterations may be made to the invention by those skilled in the art in order to meet local and specific requirements. More specifically, although the invention has been described with a certain degree of detail in connection with one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that other embodiments are possible with various omissions, substitutions and changes in form and detail. . In particular, various embodiments of the invention may be practiced without specific details (such as numerical values) set forth in the foregoing description to provide a more complete understanding. Conversely, well-known details could have been omitted or simplified to avoid obscuring the explanation with unnecessary details. Additionally, it is intended that certain elements and/or method steps expressly described in connection with any embodiment of the invention may be included in any other embodiment as a general design choice. In any case, each numerical value should be interpreted as being modified by the term 'about' (unless it has already been modified), and each range of numerical values should expressly be interpreted as being modified by any possible continuum within that range. It should be interpreted as specifying a number (including the endpoints of the range). Additionally, ordinal numbers or other qualifiers are merely used as labels to distinguish elements with the same name, and do not in themselves imply any precedence, priority, or order. The terms 'comprise', 'have' (and any forms thereof) are to be construed in an open, non-limiting sense (i.e. not limited to only the items referred to) and the terms 'based on', 'according to', The term 'function of' (and any form thereof) should be construed in a non-exclusive relationship (i.e., possibly including additional variables), and the term 'a' may refer to one or more items (unless explicitly stated otherwise). ), and the term 'means for' (or any means + function expression) should be interpreted as any structure adapted or configured to perform the relevant function.

For example, an embodiment provides one injection system. However, this injection system can be of any type (eg, with another pressurization system, with a ceiling mount that mounts to the ceiling of the imaging set, etc.).

In one embodiment, the infusion system is for infusing one or more fluids into a patient. However, the fluids may be of any number and type (e.g., whether medical fluids are used in general medical applications for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, such as drugs or intracorporeal fluids, or generally for any other treatment, such as cosmetic purposes). used); Additionally, the fluid may be injected into any patient (human or animal) in any manner (eg, intra-arterial injection).

In one embodiment, the injection system includes one or more supply stations, each supplying one of the fluids to be injected. However, the injection system may include any number of supply stations (up to a single supply station) for supplying the same or different fluids (in any combination).

In one embodiment, at least one of the feeding stations includes a bottle holder for holding a bottle containing the fluid to be injected. However, the solution detailed below is, for example, one (or more) supply stations without bag holders for using bottles and/or one (or more) supply stations with bag holders for using bags. Can be applied to any number of feed stations (from a single feed station to all feed stations) comprising a station; Additionally, the bottle holder can be of any type (e.g., with a mechanical lock for the bottle) and can hold bottles of any type (e.g., made of hard plastic) and size. It can be used to maintain

In one embodiment, the bottle holder includes a first connector. However, the first connector may be of any type (eg, snap fit, screw fit).

In one embodiment, the at least one feeding station includes a cover to cover the bottle when held on the bottle holder. However, covers can be of any type, shape and size (eg, a cap hinged to a bottle holder); Additionally, the cover can cover the bottle in any way (eg, completely or only partially surrounding the bottle).

In one embodiment, the cover includes a second connector for mating with the first connector to mount the cover on the bottle holder (see above).

In one embodiment, the at least one delivery station also includes a bag holder for holding a bag containing the fluid to be injected. However, the bag holder can be of any type (eg with a seat for the bag); It can also be used to hold bags of any type (for example, made of polyethylene) and size.

In one embodiment, the bag holder includes an additional second connector (for mounting the bag holder on the bottle holder) for mating with the first connector and an additional first connector (for mounting the bag holder on the bottle holder) for mating with the second connector. (for mounting a cover on the top). However, the additional first connector and/or the additional second connector may be exactly the same or simply interchangeable with the first connector and the second connector, respectively.

In one embodiment, the infusion system includes a delivery device for delivering fluid to a patient. However, the delivery device can be of any type (eg, with separate delivery lines for each feeding station, with a delivery line terminating in a needle for direct insertion into the patient, etc.).

In one embodiment, the bottle holder includes a connection port for connecting the bottle to the delivery device. However, this connection port can be of any type, shape, or size (eg, a valve integrated with a bottle holder) and can be placed in any position (eg, on the side).

In one embodiment, the bag holder includes an opening across the opening in the connection port to access the connection port to connect the bag to the delivery device. However, the opening can be of any shape (eg, matching the connection port or larger); In any case, the possibility of providing another independent connection port in the bag holder (for connecting the bag to the delivery device) is not excluded.

In one embodiment, when the bag holder is not mounted on the bottle holder, the injection system includes a bottle connector disposed within the connection port; The bottle connector has a bottle connection element (for connection to a bottle) and a delivery connection element (for connection to a delivery device) in fluid communication with the bottle connection element. However, bottle connectors can be of any type, shape, and size, and can be positioned within the connection port in any manner (eg, across a side port); Additionally, the bottle connection element and the delivery connection element may be of any type (eg, spikes, septum, male/female lure fittings).

In one embodiment, when the bag holder is mounted to the bottle holder, the injection system includes a bag connector disposed within the connection port; The bag connector has a bag connection element (for connection to the bag) and an additional delivery connection element (for connection to a delivery device) in fluid communication with the bag connection element. However, the back connector can be of any type, shape and size, and can be positioned within the connection port in any way (either the same or different for the bottle connector). Additionally, the bag connection element may be of any type (either identical or different to the bottle connection element) and the additional transfer connection element may be of any type (exactly the same as the transfer connection element or simply interchangeable). ). In any case, the possibility of using other delivery devices for the bag is not excluded.

In one embodiment, the bag holder comprises locking means switchable between a locked state for locking the bag holder on the bottle holder and an unlocked state for unlocking the bag holder from the bottle holder. However, the locking means may be implemented in any structure (e.g. a latch) and in any location (e.g. on a bottle holder), or may be omitted entirely.

In one embodiment, the combination of the locking means and the first connector implements a ratchet mechanism for switching the locking means to the locked state during mounting of the bag holder on the bottle holder. However, the ratchet mechanism may be of any type (eg, with a friction device to prevent any backlash); Additionally, the locking means can be switched to the locked state in any way (eg by a dedicated mechanism independent of the corresponding connectors) during mounting of the bag holder to the bottle holder.

In one embodiment, the locking means comprises command means for switching the locking means to an unlocked state in response to a manual command. However, the command means may be implemented in any structure (eg pull-button, slider); In any case, the possibility of unlocking the bag holder from the bottle holder in another way (for example by simply applying sufficient force) is not excluded.

In one embodiment, the combination of the second connector with the first connector or an additional first connector and the combination of the additional second connector with the first connector implements a bayonet-type mount. In one embodiment, the bayonet-type mount is configured to move the cover to the bottle holder or used for mounting on a bag holder and for mounting the bag holder on a bottle holder; A bayonet-type mount may be configured to secure a cover to a bottle holder or It is used for detaching from the bag holder and for detaching the bag holder from the bottle holder. However, bayonet-type mounts can be of any type (e.g., by a cylindrical male component with radial pins and a female receiver with mating L-shaped slots); Additionally, the (first and second) translations and rotations can have arbitrary directions and ranges.

In one embodiment, the locking means includes stopping means. However, the stopping means may be implemented in any way (eg by a tooth pivoting around one end of the locking means).

In one embodiment, the locking means includes resilient means for biasing the stop means into a locked state to prevent the second rotation. However, the elastic means may be implemented in any structure (e.g. directly by means of a flexible structure of the stop means) or by biasing the stop means in any way (e.g. by a pushing or pulling action). , so that the stop means prevents the second rotation in any way (for example, by means of teeth with steep slopes).

In one embodiment, the stop means comprise leading means that, upon a first rotation, interfere with the first connector and guide the stop means against the resilient means into an unlocked state allowing the first rotation. However, the guidance means may be implemented in any structure (eg a lever with a round profile).

In one embodiment, the command means comprise means for moving the stop means against the resilient means to the unlocked position. However, the command means can move the stop means in any way (for example, by a separate element acting on the pole).

In one embodiment, the bag holder includes hooking means for hanging the bag. However, the hooking means may be implemented in any way (eg with a lock to secure the hook body bag).

In one embodiment, the bag holder includes adjustment means for adjusting the position of the hooking means. However, the adjustment means can be implemented in any way (e.g. by ratchets and corresponding release systems) and the position of the hooking means can be adjusted in any way (continuously or intermittently in any number of positions). way). In any case, the possibility of having the hooking means in a fixed position is not excluded.

In one embodiment, the at least one supply station also includes an adjustment device for thermally conditioning the fluid to be injected within a chamber defined by a cover mounted on a bottle holder or on a bag holder. However, the chamber may be of any type, shape and size depending on the cover (see above); Additionally, the regulating device may operate in any manner (e.g., to heat and/or cool the fluid starting from any temperature, such as room temperature) and may be of any type (e.g., with any number of control elements up to a single control element). In any case, the regulating device may be provided in any number of feeding stations (same or different for the feeding stations provided with bag holders); Conversely, a simplified implementation without any regulating devices is considered.

In one embodiment, the adjustment device traverses the opening when the bag holder is mounted on the bottle holder. However, the adjustment device can be arranged in any way (eg mounted on the bottle holder, mounted on the bottle holder and then on the bag holder, or built into the cover).

In one embodiment, the at least one feeding station includes means for mounting a conditioning device on a bottle holder. However, the adjustment device may be mounted on the holder in any way (eg by snap fitting).

In one embodiment, a first connector is provided on the adjustment device. However, the first connector can be provided in any position (eg only on the bottle holder, on the adjustment device instead of that on the bottle holder or on the adjustment device in addition to that on the bottle holder).

In one embodiment, the adjustment device includes a first adjustment element disposed about the connection port. However, the first adjustment element may be of any type, shape and size (e.g., square) and disposed around the connection port in any manner (e.g., only partially surrounding the connection port, etc.). It can be.

In one embodiment, the adjustment device includes a second adjustment element extending transversely to the first adjustment element. However, the second adjustment element may be of any type, shape, and size (e.g., U-shaped), and may be positioned in any manner (e.g., at an angle, completely surrounding the first adjustment element, etc.). 1 May extend transversely to the regulating element. In any case, the adjustment device with these first and second adjustment elements also allows for use in (standard) injection systems on its own (without the bag holder described above).

In one embodiment, the first adjustment element extends horizontally at operating conditions of the injection system. However, the possibility of extending the first adjustment element in other directions is not excluded (eg vertically when the connection port is arranged laterally).

In one embodiment, the second adjustment element extends from the edge of the first adjustment element. However, the second adjustment element may be disposed in any other position (in contact or spaced apart from the first adjustment element).

In one embodiment, the second adjustment element extends vertically at operating conditions of the injection system. However, the possibility of extending the second adjustment element in another direction is not excluded (eg horizontally when the connection port is arranged laterally).

In one embodiment, the first adjustment element completely surrounds the connection port in the top view. However, the first adjustment element may surround the connection port in any way (eg completely or only partially along the height of the connection port).

In one embodiment, the first adjustment element includes a ring formed of a disk with a through hole that mates with a connection port. However, the ring may have any thickness, and may be of any size and be attached to a disk with any through holes that mate with the connection ports in any manner (e.g., slightly narrower or larger than the connection ports). can be formed by

In one embodiment, the second adjustment element partially surrounds the connection port. However, the second adjustment element may be arranged in any way around the connection port (eg with a number of components distributed along the border of the connection port).

In one embodiment, the second adjustment element extends along an arc. However, the second adjustment element may extend along any line (eg, oval).

In one embodiment, the arc forms an angle of 220°-340°. However, the arc can have any other extent.

In one embodiment, the second adjustment element includes a pin with a height that decreases from the center of the pin to each end. However, the height of the fins may be reduced in any way (eg, having one or more sections of constant height, etc.); More generally, the fins can have any different profile (even profiles that always have the same height).

In one embodiment, the first conditioning element comprises a first heating coil having a first resistance and the second conditioning element comprises a second heating coil having a second resistance higher than the first resistance. However, heating coils can be of any type, shape and size; Additionally, the heating coils can have any resistance in absolute or relative terms (one of the resistances is lower, the same or higher than the other). More generally, any other implementation of heating elements is contemplated (even those not based on the Joule effect).

In one embodiment, the injection system includes means for individually controlling the first adjustment element and the second adjustment element. However, the regulating elements can be controlled individually or always in the same way. Additionally, control of the regulating device may be implemented in any way. For example, the regulating device may be controlled by any software program suitable for use by or in conjunction with any data processing or computing system (e.g. directly from a central unit), thereby allowing the system Configure (e.g., in the form of external or resident software, firmware, or microcode) to execute the desired task. The program may be provided on any computer-readable storage medium or may be downloaded to a corresponding computing system in any manner (eg, over a network). In any case, the heating device may be controlled by a hardware structure (e.g., circuitry integrated into one or more chips) or by a combination of software and hardware that is appropriately programmed or otherwise configured.

In one embodiment, the regulating device includes a plurality of temperature sensors each measuring the temperature within the chamber. However, temperature sensors can be of any type, located in any location, and in any number (up to zero).

In one embodiment, the injection system includes means for detecting an error condition by comparison of measured temperatures. However, detection of error conditions may be implemented in any way (as above); Additionally, an error condition may be detected by any comparison of measured temperatures (eg, based on trends in temperature differences over time). In any case, this feature may be omitted (eg when a single temperature sensor is available).

In one embodiment, the regulating device is a heating device to maintain a target temperature within the chamber. However, control of temperature may be implemented in any way (as above); Additionally, the target temperature can be maintained in any way, within any range around any desired value (e.g., switching on the heating device when the measured temperature falls below the target temperature - delta temperature, and measuring by switching off the heating device when the specified temperature exceeds the target temperature + delta temperature).

In one embodiment, the infusion system is for infusing fluid into a patient during a scan of the patient; The fluid is one or more medical fluids containing a contrast agent and/or physiological saline. However, the implantation system can be used for any scanning examination (eg, MR, nuclear, or ultrasound imaging applications); Additionally, the injection system may contain any contrast agent (e.g., barium-based contrast agent such as barium sulfate, gadolinium, radioisotope, suspension of gas-filled microbubbles), any physiological saline solution (e.g., with dextrose added), It can be used with any combination of these or, more generally, with any medical fluid.

One embodiment provides a bag holder for use with the infusion system described above; The bag holder includes the additional first connector and the additional second connector. However, bag holders are sold as stand-alone products to be used with existing infusion systems (with or without the adjustment devices described above), as modified (aftermarket) kits for adaptation to infusion systems, or to be used with (new) infusion systems. Can be integrated directly.

One embodiment provides an infusion system for infusing one or more fluids into a patient; The injection system includes one or more supply stations each supplying one of the fluids to be injected from the vessel. At least one of the supply stations includes housing means defining a chamber for housing a vessel (a chamber having a connection port for connecting the vessel to a delivery device for delivering fluid to a patient) and a device for thermally conditioning the fluid within the chamber. Includes control device. The adjustment device includes a first adjustment element disposed around the connection port and a second adjustment element extending transversely to the first adjustment element. However, the injection system (in this case also a syringe-type injection system) and the regulating device can be of any type (see above).

One embodiment provides an adjustment device for use in the injection system described above; The adjustment device includes the first adjustment element and the second adjustment element. However, the adjusting device may be marketed as a stand-alone product for use with existing infusion systems (with or without the adjusting device described above), as a modified (aftermarket) kit for adaptation to the infusion system, or as a (new) infusion system. can be integrated directly into

In general, similar considerations apply when the injection system, bag holder and control device each have a different structure, contain equivalent components (eg, made of different materials) or have different operating characteristics. In any case, any component may be split into more elements, or two or more components may be combined together into a single component; Additionally, each component can be replicated to support parallel execution of corresponding tasks. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, any interaction between different components generally need not be continuous, and the interaction may be direct or indirect through one or more intermediaries.

One embodiment provides a method of operating an infusion system to infuse one or more fluids into a patient. For at least one supply station (for supplying one of the fluids to be injected) included in the injection system, the method includes maintaining a bottle containing the fluid to be injected in a bottle holder and forming the bottle holder to cover the bottle. 1. Mounting the cover on the bottle holder by mating the connector with a second connector of the cover. The method also includes mounting the bag holder on the bottle holder by mating a first connector of the bottle holder with an additional second connector of the bag holder; Maintaining the bag containing the fluid to be injected in the bag holder and mounting the cover on the bag holder by mating an additional first connector of the bag holder with a second connector of the cover to cover the bag. However, each feeding station may be used with only a bottle holder, only with a bag holder, or with both a bottle holder and a bag holder, with the different feeding stations being used in any of the same or different ways. Can be used in combination.

One embodiment provides a method of operating an infusion system to infuse one or more fluids into a patient. For at least one supply station included in the infusion system (for supplying one of the fluids to be infused from the container), the method includes housing the container within a chamber (for delivering the fluid to the patient through a connection port of the chamber). with the vessel connected to the delivery device) and thermally conditioning the medical fluid within the chamber, said conditioning step being performed by a first conditioning element disposed around the connection port and transverse to the first conditioning element. and thermally conditioning the fluid by a second conditioning element extending in a direction.

The steps described above merely relate to a method of controlling the infusion system and are completely independent of the actual infusion of fluid into the patient; In any case, the injection can be performed in a non-invasive manner without substantial physical intervention on the patient, which would require specialized medical knowledge or entail any health risks to the patient (e.g., intramuscularly). Accordingly, the method merely relates to the operation of the infusion system without providing any functional interaction with the action produced on the patient by the infusion system per se.

Typically, the same solution is implemented by using more steps or parts of similar steps with the same functionality (e.g., by removing some non-essential steps or adding additional optional steps). In such cases, similar considerations generally apply; Additionally, the steps may be executed (at least partially) in a different order, simultaneously or in an interleaved way.

Claims (15)

An infusion system (200; 700) for infusing one or more fluids into a patient, said infusion system (200; 700) comprising one or more supply stations (105a; 105b) each supplying one of the fluids to be injected, At least one of the supply stations 105a; 105b:
A bottle holder (115a; 115b) for holding a bottle (110a; 110b) containing a fluid to be injected, the bottle holder (115a; 115b) including a first connector (415; 1135), and
A cover (120a; 120b) for covering the bottle (110a; 110b) when held on the bottle holder (115a; 115b), wherein the cover (120a; 120b) is placed on the bottle holder (115a; 115b). In the injection system (200; 700) including a cover (120a; 120b) including a second connector (420) in relative engagement with the first connector (415; 1135) for mounting,
The at least one supply station (105a; 105b):
It includes a bag holder (205a; 205b) for holding a bag (605) containing the fluid to be injected, wherein the bag holder (205a; 205b) holds the bag holder (205a; 205b) as the bottle holder (115a; 115b). ) In order to mount the additional second connector 425 relative to the first connector 415; 1135 and the cover 120a; 120b on the bag holder 205a; 205b. An injection system (200; 700) comprising an additional first connector (430) in relative engagement with the second connector (420). 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the infusion system (200; 700) comprises a delivery device (135, 145) for delivering fluid to the patient, and the bottle holder (115a; 115b) holds the bottle (110a; 110b). Comprising a connection port (132a; 132b) for connection to the delivery device (135, 145), wherein the bag holder (205a; 205b) is positioned across the opening (307) within the connection port (132a; 132b). An infusion system (200; 700) comprising an opening (307) for accessing the connection port (132a; 132b) for connecting the bag (605) to the delivery device (135, 145). 3. The method of claim 2, wherein when the bag holder (205a; 205b) is not mounted on the bottle holder (115a; 115b), the injection system (200; 700) is disposed within the connection port (132a; 132b). Comprising a bottle connector (130a; 130b), wherein the bottle connector (130a; 130b) is a bottle connection element for connecting to the bottle (110a; 110b) and said delivery device (135) in fluid communication with said bottle connection element. , 145), and when the bag holder (205a; 205b) is mounted on the bottle holder (115a; 115b), the injection system (200; 700) is connected to the connection port (132a). ; comprising a back connector 630 disposed within 132b, wherein the bag connector 630 is in fluid communication with the bag connection element 635 for connection to the bag 605 and the bag connection element 635 Infusion system (200; 700), characterized in that it has an additional delivery connection element (640) for connection to said delivery device (135, 145). The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bag holder (205a; 205b) is in a locked state for locking the bag holder (205a; 205b) on the bottle holder (115a; 115b) and the bag. An injection system (200; 700), characterized in that it comprises locking means (505) switchable between unlocked states for unlocking a holder (205a; 205b) from said bottle holder (115a; 115b). 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the combination of the locking means (505) and the first connector (415; 1135) is such that the locking means (505) is configured to lock the bag holder (205a; 205b) on the bottle holder (115a; 115b). implementing a ratchet mechanism for switching the locking means (505) to a locked state, wherein the locking means (505) comprises command means (535) for switching the locking means (505) to an unlocked state in response to a manual command. Injection system (200; 700), characterized in that. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a combination of the second connector (420) and the first connector (415; 1135) or the additional first connector (430) and the additional second connector (425) ) and the first connector (415; 1135) implements a bayonet-type mount,
The bayonet-type mount attaches the cover 120a; 120b to the bottle holder 115a; 115b or the bag by a first translation from a detached state to an interference state followed by a first rotation from an interference state to a mounted state. Mounting on the holder (205a; 205b) and mounting the bag holder (205a; 205b) on the bottle holder (115a; 115b), and
The bayonet-type mount is configured to move the cover 120a by a second rotation opposite to the first rotation from the mounted state to the interference state, followed by a second translation opposite to the first translation from the interference state to the detached state. ; 120b) is detached from the bottle holder (115a; 115b) or the bag holder (205a; 205b) and the bag holder (205a; 205b) is detached from the bottle holder (115a; 115b). (200; 700). The method of claim 6, wherein the locking means (505) includes a stop means (510) and an elastic means (540) that biases the stop means (510) to a locked state to prevent the second rotation, and the stop means (510) The means 510 interferes with the first connector 415 (1135) during the first rotation to move the stop means 510 against the elastic means 540 in an unlocked state allowing the first rotation. characterized by guiding means (530) for guiding, said command means (535) comprising means (535) for moving said stop means (510) against said resilient means (540) to an unlocked position. Injection system (200; 700). The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bag holder (205a; 205b) includes a hooking means (325) for hanging the bag (605) and a hooking means (325) for adjusting the position of the hooking means (325). An injection system (200; 700) characterized by comprising adjustment means (320, 560-570). 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one feeding station (105a; 105b) is mounted on the bottle holder (115a; 115b) or on the bag holder (205a; 205b). The injection system (700) further comprises an adjustment device (705a; 705b) for thermally controlling the fluid to be injected within the chamber defined by the cover (120a; 120b). 10. Injection according to claim 9, wherein the adjustment device (705a; 705b) traverses the opening (307) when the bag holder (205a; 205b) is mounted on the bottle holder (115a; 115b). System (700). 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the at least one feeding station (105a; 105b) comprises means (1122, 1125) for mounting the regulating device (705a; 705b) on the bottle holder (115; 115b), Injection system (700), characterized in that the first connector (1135) is provided on the adjustment device (705a; 705b). 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the adjustment device (705a; 705b) has a first adjustment element (710a; 710b) arranged around the connection port (132a; 132b) and transverse to the first adjustment element (710a; 710b). Injection system (700), characterized in that it comprises a directionally extending second adjustment element (715a; 715b). 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the injection system (200; 700) is for injecting a fluid into the patient during a scan of the patient, the fluid comprising a contrast medium and/or saline solution. An infusion system (200; 700) characterized by one or more medical fluids. Bag holder (205a; 205b) for use in an injection system (200; 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: said further first connector (430) and said further second connector (425). A bag holder (205a; 205b) comprising a. 1. A method of operating an infusion system (200; 700) for injecting one or more fluids into a patient, comprising: at least one supply station (105a; 105b) included in the infusion system (200) and supplying one of the fluids to be injected; For the above method:
maintaining a bottle (110a; 110b) containing the fluid to be injected in a bottle holder (115a; 115b);
In order to cover the bottle (110a; 110b), the first connector (415; 1135) of the bottle holder (115a; 115b) is relatively coupled with the second connector (420) of the cover (120a; 120b) to cover the bottle holder (115a). In the method comprising the step of mounting the cover (120a; 120b) on 115b),
The bag holder is mounted on the bottle holder (115a; 115b) by relative coupling the first connector (415; 1135) of the bottle holder (115a; 115b) with the additional second connector 425 of the bag holder (205a; 205b). Mounting (205a; 205b),
maintaining a bag (605) containing the injected fluid in the bag holder (205a; 205b); and
In order to cover the bag 605, the additional first connector 430 of the bag holder 205a; 205b is coupled to the second connector 420 of the cover 120a; 120b, thereby forming the bag holder 205a; 205b. ) A method of operating an injection system (200; 700) for injecting one or more fluids into a patient, comprising the step of mounting the cover (120a; 120b) on the patient.